MOSP - Macao Scientific Publishers

Research Article

The use of intermittent preventive treatment with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine in pregnancy in Ibadan, Nigeria: Implications for policy

Tongo O. Olukemi, Orimadegun Adebola Emmanuel and Akinyinka Olusegun Olusina*

Abstract: Malaria in pregnancy (MIP) remains a major public health concern, inspite of the adoption of WHO recommended intermittent preventive treatment (IPTp) with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) for its control in Nigeria. Using interviewer administered questionnaires, information on knowledge of the burden, consequences and the use of SP for malaria control in pregnancy was obtained from 800 mothers within 24 h after delivery at two health centres in Ibadan. Women who attended antenatal care (ANC) at the secondary facility were less likely to demonstrate poor knowledge of causes (OR = 0.18, 95% CI = 0.08, 0.38), consequences (OR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.24, 0.55) and control strategies (OR = 0.32, 95% = 0.18, 0.59) compared with tertiary facility. Only 56.4% of all the mothers were aware of IPTp SP as government policy for prevention of MIP out of which 16.9% used IPTp SP in index pregnancy. Overall, only 18.4% of all mothers used IPTp SP. Being unaware of the existing government policy and educational attainment of 9 years independently predicted non-usage of IPTp SP. This study revealed that the uptake of IPTp SP in pregnancy is poor in spite of good knowledge of burden of malaria in pregnancy and underscores the need to scale up awareness campaign and monitor implementation at all levels of health care.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Malaria in pregnancy, intermittent preventive treatment, sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Determinants of knowledge and awareness about AIDS: Urban-rural differentials in Bangladesh

Full Length Research Paper

Abstract: This study utilized data from Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2004 to identify the determinants of knowledge about AIDS for women of urban and rural areas of Bangladesh, bi-variate and multivariate logistic regression methods were employed in analyzing data. This study found that a wider gap exists between urban and rural areas regarding knowledge about AIDS, where every 8 out of 10 urban women know about AIDS but almost half of the rural women still do not know about AIDS. Mass media play a major role for growing awareness about AIDS in both of these areas. In the urban area 61.6 percent women knew at least one correct way to avoid AIDS but rural women are in miserable condition because the corresponding figure for rural women was only 31.3% that means 37.7 and 67.7% among urban and rural women respectively still did not know how to avoid AIDS. Binary logistic regression method shows that education, occupation, ever use of contraception, currently using condom, permission to go to hospital/health center, mass media exposure, region of residence and wealth index significantly influence the knowledge about AIDS among rural women, whereas, in the urban areas except occupation and currently using condom all these remaining variables appear as the significant predictors of knowledge about AIDS.[...] Read More.

Keywords: AIDS, mass media, Bangladesh, logistic regression analysis.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Simplifying mathematical modelling to test intervention strategies for Chlamydia

Catherine Heffernan* and Jacob A. Dunningham

Abstract: In recent years, there has been a rise in applications of mathematical modelling in sexually transmitted infections. This paper outlines a new approach to mathematical modelling that tests intervention efforts on Chlamydia. The aim was to produce a simple model that can be used when new data comes to hand without the need to re-run the simulation. A simple model was developed to study the effects of interventions in lowering rates of Chlamydia in a high-risk population of 16 to 24 year olds. Parameters are informed by the best available data. The model was verified by running it backwards in time to see if it correctly ‘retrodicts’ rates of Chlamydia in the past. The model predicted that Chlamydia would disappear long-term if there were 45% condom use, annual check- ups and 23.5% successful contact tracing among the high-risk 16 – 24 year old age group. The model’s expressions can be applied readily to different populations of interest and to address specific questions, indicating that the model is a quick and easy tool to apply in public health policy making.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Mathematical modelling, Chlamydia, public health interventions, partner notification, annual check-up, condom use.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Tracking of overweight among urban school children: A 4 years cohort study in Sousse Tunisia

Harrabi Imed, Maatoug Maaloul Jihene *, Ben Hammouda Hamida, Gaha Rafika, Lazreg Fatma, Boussaadia Amel and Ghannem Hassen

Abstract: Our objective was to examine tracking patterns of body mass index (BMI) as well as their predictors between childhood and adolescence. A cohort of 452 Tunisian children aged 13 - 15 years was followed for 4 years (1999 - 2003). Tracking of BMI was defined as in individual maintaining a certain status or relative position (relative BMI quartile) overtime. After 4 years, almost 50% of the subjects had maintained their relative positions, but 25% had moved into a lower or higher quartile. The BMIs of thin and fat were more likely to track: 61.9 and 66.7% remained in the bottom and upper quartiles, respectively. Overweight children were 2.6 times as likely as all other children to become overweight adolescents. Individual’s initial BMIs, sex and socioeconomic status helped to predict tracking and change in BMI. Predictors of overweight tracking found in this study would be useful to select children at risk for preventive intervention.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Obesity, adolescents, cardiovascular risk factor.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Epidemiological investigation of death cases by pesticide poisoning

A. Tall*, A. B. Ly, P. Nabeth, A. A. Sall, F. D. Sarr, J. Faye, A. Badiane, G. Diakhaby, R. Michel, N. A. Bar, M. E. Gomes Do Espirito Santo, A. Bazire, L. Marrama, R. Garnier, F.

Abstract: This study gives the report of an epidemiological investigation of seven death cases in a police force headquarters by pesticide poisoning diagnosed by the decrease of the enzyme choline esterase activity. A case control study with an environmental description has been realized, permitting the establishment of temporarily dynamic relationships among the death cases. In Africa, there are many incidents of domestic or professional poisoning with a fatal ending for which, few data are available. The aetiological orientations are discussed in the African context and the difficulties to reach the analysis of toxicology in sub-Saharan Africa are underlined.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Poisoning organophosphate, organochloride, Senegal.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Sustainability problems and bacteriological quality of rural water supply in Alabata community, South-western Nigeria

Shittu O. B.*, Akpan I., Popoola T. O. S., Oyedepo J. A. and Oluderu I. B.

Abstract: Alabata is a community with no electricity and comprehensive topographic or administrative map. They also depend on a fuelled generating set to power the pumping machine for the UNICEF assisted borehole. The citizens often had to resort to an unsafe alternative water source for domestic purposes. In March 2006 an observational study trip through which data on sanitation, health and water sources were acquired was made to Alabata community. Coordinates of relevant facilities and water sampling points were taken and plotted in a Geographic Information System (using ArcView 3.2a GIS software). A base map for the study area was generated from satellite imagery (IKONOS). Sample points of water were overlaid on the base map that was produced from the satellite image. Water was collected from alternative water sources and analysed for bacteriological quality in the Microbiology laboratory. The bacteriological analysis of the different water sources with the exception of deep protected well with no recorded growth, showed that coliform count (> 1100 MPN/1000 ml), total Escherichia coli count (3-6 log cfu/ml), and total heterotrophic count (3-5 log cfu/ml). In all, the water samples generally exceeded the WHO and EPA standards of acceptable limit for drinking and domestic use.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Geographical information system (GIS), rural water, sustainability problem, South-western Nigeria.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Vaginal douching practice in Eskisehir in Turkey

Didem Arslantas*, Hatice Karabagli and Filiz Koc

Abstract: The objective of the study was to identify the vaginal douching habits and the factors that would have a connection with this practice in women from Eskisehir Province in Turkey. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 May to 30 June, 2005. In present study, any sampling technique was not used. The subjects were women belonging to the 15 - 49 age groups who were admitted to No. 2 Family Planning Center and Sultandere Primary Health Care Center. A survey containing such questions about the socio -demographic and reproductive characteristics was conducted on these women via a face-to-face interview method. Among the statistical tests, chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were utilized. A total number of 503 women with an average age of 33.18 ± 7.50 were attended at the health center. Vaginal douching was performed in 47.7% women and the most common the method was cleansing (66.6%) and post-intercourse (71.8%). The information about these methods was obtained mostly from their mothers (31.6%). In accordance with the results obtained from the study, the vaginal douching practice is a widespread conventional attitude among women and should be given the necessary importance. It was concluded that it is necessary to provide health education for women who state that they get information concerning the practice mostly from their mothers and this wrong attitude change needs to be corrected. Since vaginal lavage is directly linked with low education levels and the state of unemployment, it is resolved that such measures should be taken to increase the socio-economic levels of women. It is also concluded that special importance should be attached to the health education of the primary health care profession concerning the vaginal lavage.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Vaginal douching, practice, attitude, knowledge, Turkish women.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Community social capital and the use of health care services in Uganda

Bakeera S. K.,*, Petzold M., Pariyo G. W. , Galea S., Tomson G. and Wamala S.,

Abstract: Evidence mainly from high and middle income countries shows that community social capital is associated with positive health outcomes. The current policy interest in social capital stems from the anticipation that investing in it will enhance improvements in population health and some governments in high income countries have promoted initiatives to enhance its generation. However, there is a paucity of empirical evidence from low income countries on the utility of social capital for health outcomes. Therefore, the study objective was to assess the role of social capital in the use of health care services in Uganda, a low income country. The study sample included nine hundred and thirty six febrile children with complete data on place of treatment, caregiver social capital and socio-demographic variables; child demographic variables and household socioeconomic status were selected from the Iganga-Mayuge Health and Demographic Surveillance Site data base. The association for each dimension of social capital and use of a public health facility was explored using bivariate and multivariable regression models, controlling for potential confounding factors and other social capital variables at the individual caregiver and community levels. The study found that high levels of trust (OR 2.75, 1.50 to 5.02) and medium levels of informational support (OR 1.68, 1.12 to 2.50) were positively associated with the use of a public health facility. In contrast, high levels of reciprocity (OR 0.69, 0.49 to 0.97) were associated with non- use of a public health facility. This exploratory study shows an independent effect of community social capital on treatment choices made by child caregivers in a predominantly rural area of a low income country. This observation places social capital amongst the other contextual level factors that influence use of health care services in this setting. Such information can be used retrospectively or prospectively by health planners to enhance the response of communities to new policies and strategies.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Social capital, health care service use, children, community, Uganda.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Adolescent suicidal behaviors, self rated health and multiple health risk behaviors: Exploring new perspectives in suicide prevention research

Full Length Research Paper

Abstract: We sought to evaluate the extent to which self-rating of health, gender, and the co-occurrence of other health risk behaviors were related to suicidal behaviors among adolescents. Cross-sectional survey data of Colorado middle and high school students aged 12 to 18 years were analyzed using logistic regression. Main outcome variables were suicide ideation, suicide planning, and suicide attempt. Predictors included self-rated health, self-reported health behaviors, perception of body image, expression of sadness and hopelessness, self-reported sexual abuse, self-reported access to lethal weapon, and expression of school safety concerns. Adjusted results showed respondents with poor health rating had significantly higher odds of suicidal ideation (OR: 2.22), suicidal planning (OR: 1.35), and suicide attempt (OR: 2.23). Reporting of hopelessness was the most consistent predictor of suicidal behaviors with odds ratios ranging from 5.57 (for suicidal ideation) to 17.40 (for suicidal attempt). Factors associated with different adolescents’ suicidal behaviors were different for boys and girls. Findings suggest the need to consider gender differences as regards self assessment of health in order to improve the effectiveness of suicide interventions among adolescents.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Self-rated health, suicidal behaviors, suicide ideation, suicide attempt, suicide planning, adolescents.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Environmental risk factors and hospital-based cancers in two Nigerian cities

Godson R. E. E. Ana*, Mynepalli K. C. Sridhar and Michael C. Asuzu

Abstract: This ecologic study assessed disparities between environmental risk factors and cancers in two Nigerian cities. Environmental data were obtained for Port Harcourt (highly industrialized) and Ibadan(less industrialized) cities respectively. Ten- year cancer records were also obtained from the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Port Harcourt and the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi square and t-test statistics at 5% level of significance. Environmental risk factors particularly levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in air was higher in Port Harcourt than Ibadan locality (p[...] Read More.

Keywords: Environmental quality, industrialized communities, cancer.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Epidemiological features of a GIS-supported investigation of cholera outbreak in Abeokuta, Nigeria

O. B. Shittu*, I. Akpan, T. O. S. Popoola, J. A. Oyedepo and E. O. Ogunshola

Abstract: This study seeks to assess the epidemiological features of a GIS supported investigation of a cholera outbreak in Abeokuta. Abeokuta, the capital city of Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria with an area of 1256 km2 and a population of 605, 451 people had an outbreak of cholera from 20th November, 2005 to 1st of January, 2006. The outbreak affected the Abeokuta North Local Government area where the municipal waterworks is located. Municipal water consumption was found to be associated with illness [McNemar’s Chi square (X2 = 20.5; p < 0.001) and Odds ratio 10]. The epidemiological surveillance data showed a total of one hundred and fifteen cases and 11 deaths with case fatality rate of 9.6%. Male specific and female specific case fatality rates were 11.9 and 7.1%, respectively. The age group of 15 years and above accounted for 68.3% of the cases and 90.9% of the deaths. Post epidemic environmental investigation showed progressive contamination along distribution points. Cholera is still a major cause of morbidity and mortality among youth and ageing population in Nigeria.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Cholera, epidemiological studies, outbreak investigation, Vibrio cholerae, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Prevalence and epidemiology of pandemic H1N1 strains in hospitals of Eastern India

Anupam Mukherjee, Tapasi Roy, Anurodh S Agrawal, Mehuli Sarkar, Renu Lal, Sekhar Chakrabarti and Mamta Chawla-Sarkar*

Abstract: A novel Influenza A (pH1N1) virus which emerged in April, 2009, spread rapidly across the continents to become pandemic by June, 2009. In Eastern India, testing for influenza was initiated in June, 2009 and continued through July, 2010 to determine prevalence and epidemiological character of circulating pandemic H1N1 strain. Real time PCR was done on nasal and throat swab samples of patients with influenza like symptoms of those who sought medical care in local government hospitals. Of 2971 patients tested, 382 (12.86%) were positive for influenza A and 103 (3.47%) for influenza B. Of 382 influenza A positives, 284 (74.35%) and 98 (25.65%) were subtyped as pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) and seasonal H1N1 and H3N2, respectively. The novel pH1N1 virus followed typical influenza seasonality in Eastern India and revealed a unimodal peak in July and August, correlating with the rainy season. Most of the positive cases presented with mild ILI symptoms with minimal serious complications. Though four deaths were attributed to pH1N1 infection in 2010, all four had underlying serious medical complications. Infection rate was highest in age group of >55 years followed by 5 -[...] Read More.

Keywords: Pandemic, H1N1, influenza.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Review

Zoonotic tuberculosis: A review of epidemiology, clinical presentation, prevention and control

Nwanta John Anaelom, Onunkwo Joseph Ikechukwu, Ezema Wilfred Sunday and Umeononigwe Chukwunonso Nnaemeka

Abstract: The current increasing incidence of tuberculosis in humans, particularly in immunocompromised persons, has given a renewed interest in the zoonotic importance of Mycobacterium bovis, especially in developing countries. The roles of meat and milk, the commonest source of protein to man, in the transmission of the disease remain significant. Due to the grave consequences of M. bovis infection on animal and human health, it is necessary to introduce rigorous control measures to reduce the risk of the disease in human and animal populations. The institution of proper food hygiene practices and stronger intersectoral collaboration between the medical and veterinary professions is vital to the control of the disease.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Tuberculosis, Mycobacterium bovis, cattle, human, developing countries, control.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Logistic support available for timely collection of data and its association with poor reporting of epidemics in two Southwestern states in Nigeria

M. D. Dairo, J. O. Bamidele and W. O. Adebimpe

Abstract: Disease surveillance has been recognized as an effective strategy in the control and prevention of diseases most especially communicable diseases. An effective surveillance system allows early intervention for the prevention and reduction of the mortality and morbidity that may result from epidemics of communicable diseases. This study assesses the adequacy of training of disease surveillance and notification officers (DSN) officers and identifies the logistic factors that may hinder their effective functioning in the local government areas in the Ekiti and Osun States in Nigeria. A cross sectional descriptive study of the disease surveillance and notification officers in Osun and Ekiti states of Nigeria was carried out. Total sampling was done. Questionnaires sought information on demographic data, regularity of reporting and the availability of logistic facilities in the respective local government areas (LGAs). Out of 42 DSN officers surveyed, 38 (90.5%) were medical records officers. 32 (76.2%) had appropriate training in disease surveillance and notification. Most had received training from the WHO. Over 90% knew the process of reporting. 45.8% reported that there were penalties for defaulting officers. Logistic support was inadequate in more than half of the local governments surveyed. Inadequate funds and lack of surveillance forms were significantly associated with reporting of outbreaks by the officers. Only 13 of the officers had ever recorded episodes of epidemics in their LGAs. Majority of DSN officers had appropriate training on disease surveillance, reporting and notification. However, logistics for effective functioning was poor. Local and state governments need to put more effort into provision of logistic support for their DSN Officers to sustain the apparent improvement in surveillance activities.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Surveillance, logistic support, training, epidemics.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Priority families for health care according to family socio-demographic risks

Doa’a Ahmed Saleh*, Sahar Yassin, Hend Aly Sabry and Madiha Said Abdelrazik

Abstract: Socio-economic inequalities have been shown to be associated with disease burden in developing as well as developed countries. The aim of the study was (1) to test the association between family socio-demographic risks and health problems, and (2) to identify a “family sociodemographic risk line” above which families are at significant risk of developing health problems. A cross sectional community-based study was conducted in two districts in Cairo, Egypt. Socio-demographic status was assessed for 5400 families by a family socio-demographic risk score (FSRS) calculated according to the crowding index, family size, age and sex structure, education, economic dependency, smoking and addiction. The continuous FSRS (range: 0 - 12) was transformed into 5 quintiles. Association between FSRS and 21 health problems was done for the studied families using unconditional logistic regression analysis. It was found that increased FSRS was associated with a progressive increase in the prevalence of family health problems. The risk of health problems was significantly higher for the 5th compared to the 1st FSRS quintile families (odds ratio: 1.8 and 95% confidence interval: 1.41 – 2.35) which represented about 15% (784/5400) of the studied families. These would be considered the priority families for health services. Thus, the FSRS “7” was considered the “family socio-demographic risk line”.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Socioeconomic status, family socio-demographic risk, health problems, health status, risk line.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Symptomatic vulvovaginal candidiasis and genital colonization by CANDIDA species in Nigeria

Full Length Research Paper

Abstract: Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a common clinical finding among women especially the sexually active group, even though there has been a sustained increase in both the variety and potency of antifungal drugs over the past three decades. The disease apparently appears not to have sufficiently yielded to these breakthroughs nevertheless. The study was therefore set up to ascertain the prevalence of vaginal candidiasis among women in Jos. The study was retrospective in nature: Data generated from analysis of endocervical and high vaginal swab (ECS/HVS) specimens by the Microbiology laboratory of Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) for a period of five years (July 1999 - June 2004) was compiled. Samples were collected, transported, stored and processed using standard laboratory procedures. Additional information was obtained from patients’ case notes in the records department. Results were analyzed using Epi Info 6 statistical software. The prevalence of CANDIDA infection was found to be 29.1% (n = 2458); no isolate was recovered from those less than 10 years of age, while the peak age-group of infection was 30 - 39 years 11.8% (n = 997); the age-group 20 - 49 years accounted for over 25% of the entire infections. Common clinical manifestations were: Nil symptoms, 24.7% (n = 607); itching and rashes, 29.4% (n = 723). Due to the importance of the results, sex education workshops should be conducted for adolescents and young adults in order to educate them on the clinical importance of candidal infections.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Candida species, colonization, female, vaginal.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Prevalence and constraints of typhoid fever and its control in an endemic area of Singida region in Tanzania: Lessons for effective control of the disease

Full Length Research Paper

Abstract: Typhoid fever (TF) is an important communicable disease that is endemic to Tanzania, quite often complicated with malaria co- infection leading to diagnostic complications and significant mortality. Despite considerable control efforts, the disease continues to persist in Singida urban leading to significant morbidity and mortality. This paper retrospectively examines morbidity and mortality trend of typhoid infection for the past five years in Singida urban. By using questionnaire, Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and direct observational methods, the authors report interview results of 120 respondents from the study community, regarding their awareness of TF and its control methods. Results showed that, the TF prevalence records revealed a fluctuating trend with annual incidence rate of 580 – 1,400/100,000 persons, and an overall increase from 771 – 942 cases/100,000 persons (p 0.0001) between 2003 and 2007. While 88% of the respondents were aware of TF disease, 53% were unaware of its control methods. The study also revealed an acute shortage of diagnostic laboratory services which indicated that, 75% of health facilities had no such services. In adequate knowledge about personal hygiene, scarcity or lack of access to safe water, improper drainage systems and problems of unsanitary toilets in Singida urban were some of the obstacles to effective TF control. Effective TF control measures in the study district, as in other areas in the tropics, requires integration of intensive health education as a public health tool, provision and access to safe water supply and adequate strengthening of health systems.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Typhoid fever, prevalence, Singida urban, control measures.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Socio-economic implications of Simulium damnosum complex infestation in some rural communities in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria

M. A. Adeleke, *, I. K. Olaoye and A. S. Ayanwale

Abstract: Simulium damnosum sensu lato constitutes serious public health hazard and socio-economic problem in many areas of West Africa. The present study was carried out to document the socio-economic implications of black fly infestation in some rural communities of Odeda Local Government. Structured questionnaires were administered to thirty randomly selected people aged 18 years and above in three selected communities. All the respondents agreed that black fly is a problem in their communities and 63 (70%) out of 90 respondents attributed body itching/ swelling to black fly bite. Majority of the respondents (60%) lost 14 working days in a year due to illness caused by black fly bites. Those who lost between 7 and 14 days in a year due to black fly bites constituted (37.8%). While in the sick bed, each to 46 (51.1%) respondents had at least one person detailed to stay with them and the majority of them up to $100 in treating the ailment. The results emphasize the need to break man/fly contact considering the fact that most of the affected people are subsistence farmers with low incomes.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Socio-economic implications, Simulium damnosum complex, Nigeria.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Professional analysis of medical staff in public hospitals in China

Abdul K. Mbawah, Peng Xiaoming and Chen Shaoxian*

Abstract: To analyze the efficiency of public hospitals in Guangdong Province, China, and to compare the differences by region and levels of care. To carry out a survey of selected hospitals in different cities by the method of cluster sampling and to analyze the efficiency of these hospitals using data envelopment analysis (DEA) . 254 public hospitals were surveyed with a 100% response rate. About 184 (72.4%) completed the survey and gave realistic responses. 22 (11.96%) of the hospitals and facilities were totally efficient. The average total efficiency value was 0.727 (range 0.251 to 1), which indicated that the total efficiency of most of these hospitals were below average. There were also differences between hospitals in different regions. Comparatively, the proportion of efficient hospitals between regions and the levels of care were not significantly different. The average efficiency values in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) area hospitals were significantly higher than those in the non PRD area. This suggested that the prevalence of low efficiency and the wastage of resources were more serious in the non PRD area. Most of the hospitals in the non PRD area had increasing level efficiency and thus their level could be increased without loss of efficiency. More than half of the hospitals in PRD area had declining level efficiency suggesting they need downsizing to achieve better efficiency. There were no significant differences in the level of care in the different hospitals (tertiary, city secondary and county secondary hospitals). The lack of case-mix data for these hospitals could have been a major difficulty in the analysis. Waste of useful Resources was prevalent in public hospitals in Guangdong Province. The efficiency of hospitals in the PRD area was better than that in the non-PRD area. The management level and the efficient utilization of the current facilities and resources require further improvement.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Public hospital efficiency, resources, DEA analysis, Guangdong, Pearl River Delta, China.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Godfrey B.S. Iyalomhe* and Sarah I. Iyalomhe

Abstract: Hypertension (htn) is an important public health challenge at Auchi Nigeria. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological survey was to determine hypertensive patients’ knowledge, perceptions, attitudes and life-style practices so as to optimize their health and treatment needs. We examined a cohort of 108 randomly selected hypertensive by means of a self-structured questionnaire and a detailed interview. Analysis was by statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) and chi- square of the GraphPad Prism software was used for significance tests at 0.05 level. More males 60 (55.6%) than females 48 (44.4%) were assessed. Their age range was 35 – 80 years (mean = 59.05 ± 9.06 years), the modal age group was 56 – 60 years (24.1%). Sixty-six respondents (61%) knew htn to be high blood pressure (BP), 22 (20%) thought it meant excessive thinking and worrying while 57 (53%) claimed it was hereditary. Forty-three (40%) felt it was caused by malevolent spirits, 32 (30%) believed it was caused by bad food or poisoning. A few (18%) knew some risk factors. Symptoms attributed to htn were headache, restlessness, palpitation, excessive pulsation of the superficial temporal artery and “internal heat”, but 80 (74%) attested to its correct diagnosis by BP measurement. Although 98 (90.7%) felt the disease indicated serious morbidity, only 36 (33.3%) were adherent with treatment and fewer practiced life-style modification. Thirty-two (30%) knew at least one antihypertensive drug they use. Psychosocial factors like depression and anxiety, fear of addiction and intolerable drug adverse effects impacted negatively on patients’ attitude to treatment. We conclude that patients’ knowledge of htn in Auchi is low and their attitudes to treatment negative. Patient education, motivation and public enlightenment are imperative.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Hypertension-related knowledge, perception, attitudes, life-style practices, hypertensive Nigerian patients.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

The impact of health facility monitoring on cold chain management practices in Lagos, Nigeria

A. Munir Bankole,*, Kola-Korolo Olusegun, N. Bankole Marian, Iboma Godswill, O. Adeluola Adebowale, A. J. Shittu Lukeman, Olonire Olufemi, Tayo Adetokunbo and A. Mariam Odunaiye

Abstract: About 1000 privately owned health facilities (HFs) were (re)-visited between September 2007 and September, 2009. A total of 2,100 health workers (HWs) were interviewed in these HFs to evaluate their knowledge on vaccine management and administration. Cold chain assessment form was completed for each HF revisited. Health Workers that were deficient in cold chain management knowledge were given on the spot training. Between September 2007 and March 2009, 90% of fridges in the HFs monitored were non-functioning. 95% of HWs interviewed had little or no knowledge about vaccine vial monitor (VVM) while 80% of vaccines screened were either in stage 3 or 4 of VVM or with VVM indicator removed. During revisits, between March - September, 2009, 92% of fridges were in good functioning state, 84% of HWs had good knowledge of VVM with 9.3% of vials in stage 3 or 4 of VVM or with VVM indicators removed.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Vaccine, monitoring, cold chain, VVM, immunization.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Refuse disposal practices in three major motor parks in Ibadan municipality, Nigeria

S. Ibekwe Titus,*, E. Dongo Andrew and K. C. Sridhar Mynepalli

Abstract: Transportation and human mobility have become a part of development in many developing countries. In Nigerian cities, this vital activity has also led to problems associated with large quantities of waste generation and became a management issue for Local and State Governments. This work was carried out at three major motor parks, viz. Akinyele, Iwo Road, and New Garage, in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State in South-western Nigeria. To assess the nature of wastes generated and the current disposal practices in the selected motor parks. Data was collected through key informant interviews (KII); transect walk and personal observations, focus group discussions (FGD) and available reports and publications. The findings revealed a generally poor environmental hygiene, as the waste is disposed on to open dumps, streams or open burning. These practices apparently are unhygienic and to mitigate such public health issues, a proper organizational structure and supervision by a designated officer is found to be effective in keeping the motor parks safe and hygienic in the interest of public health. Most of the respondents, though aware of such problems could not do much due to lack of funds, tools and support from the government. The waste problems in the motor parks are neglected by the various tiers of government and there is need for greater attention as it is a public health concern in Nigerian cities.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Waste, disposal, motor parks.

2018, 7(1), 1-6;

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